Ilona Maher combines social media stardom and Olympic strength [Video]

PARIS, France — Rugby sevens star Ilona Maher has been a huge hit on social media as the U.S. women’s team has progressed to the semifinals at the Paris Olympics.

She’s been busy making funny TikTok and Instagram reels and also empowering posts about women and sports. She’s also producing some big hits on opponents at Stade de France as a regular starter for the U.S. women’s rugby sevens team.

The 27-year-old Maher isn’t new to this. Her hilarious takes on village life in the pandemic-era Tokyo Olympics three years ago made her one of the breakout stars of those Games.

How did Maher become famous on TikTok?

Spectators were barred from Olympic venues in Tokyo, and there’s always strict rules anyway about who is allowed into the athletes’ village. Those weren’t barriers for Maher. With fans locked out under …